Outdoor clothing is not just about style—it’s primarily about functionality, durability, and reliability in demanding natural conditions. Whether you're planning to conquer mountain peaks or simply enjoy a peaceful walk in nature, Direct Alpine outdoor clothing won’t let you down. However, to ensure it serves you well for as long as possible while maintaining its functional properties, proper care is essential.
That’s why we’ve prepared a comprehensive guide to help you extend the lifespan of your favorite pieces.
1. Follow the Label Instructions: The First Step to Success
Every piece of Direct Alpine clothing is made with attention to quality and detail. Naturally, it requires specific care. The care label inside the garment is your best guide. These instructions are not just recommendations but the key to keeping materials and technologies in perfect condition. If the label states that the product should not be tumble-dried or must be washed at 30°C, it’s important to follow these guidelines. Your MIDI pants or GUIDE jacket will thank you with their resistance to wind, rain, and other weather challenges.
If the label is no longer readable, you can find important care information on our website on the product’s page.
2. Washing: Gentle Handling for Maximum Performance
Washing outdoor clothing isn’t the same as washing your favorite t-shirt. Functional materials require special care to maintain their unique properties. Follow these guidelines when washing:
• Use special detergents designed for functional clothing that gently clean and do not damage protective layers (detergent for membrane clothing).
• Avoid regular fabric softeners—they can degrade the DWR (Durable Water Repellent) treatment and damage the membrane.
• Wash at 30°C using a gentle cycle with low spin speed (maximum 400 rpm). For jackets with unique THINDOWN® insulation, like the UNIQ jacket, select the NO SPIN icon to avoid damaging the insulation.
• If your clothing isn’t heavily soiled, airing it out or wiping it with a damp cloth is often sufficient. Frequent washing can unnecessarily wear out the materials.
3. Impregnation: Restoring the Protective Shield
Membrane products, such as the TALUNG LADY, COMET jackets or CYCLONE PANTS, COULOIR PLUS trousers, and others, are designed to protect you from rain and wind. However, even the best technologies need occasional maintenance. The DWR treatment on the outer layer wears off over time due to washing, sweat, and friction.
How to restore it?
• After a few washes, use impregnation sprays—do not apply impregnation in the washing machine, as this can coat the inner layer and reduce breathability. Ideally, apply two layers of impregnation to the outer fabric.
• Always impregnate clean clothing for the best results.
• Spray evenly on dry or slightly damp clothing, then let it dry according to the instructions. Another tip is to lightly iron the impregnated surface with a tissue in between to set the treatment—test on a small area first to avoid damage.
How do you know when your jacket or pants need re-impregnation?
If water no longer beads on the surface but instead soaks in and forms wet patches, it’s time to wash and re-impregnate!
These patches don’t mean your jacket has stopped working or is letting water through to your skin. However, as your body generates heat, it should escape through the membrane. If moisture from your body cannot reach the outer layer and evaporate due to these wet patches, you’ll start sweating because the jacket isn’t breathing.
That’s why restoring the DWR treatment is necessary. Wash the jacket or pants and then apply two layers of impregnation.
You can even perform a simple home test for membrane products: Lay your jacket or pants flat on a table, pour a glass of water on the fabric, and see if the water remains on the surface. If it partially absorbs and forms a stain, it’s time to renew the DWR treatment.
4. Drying: Patience Pays Off
Proper drying is crucial, especially for functional clothing. Each type of material requires a different approach. Membrane jackets (ICON, COMET) should be air-dried, but not in direct sunlight. Avoid tumble dryers unless explicitly stated on the label.
For jackets (UNIQ, UNIQ LADY, PEAK) with THINDOWN® insulation, simply hang them to dry in a well-ventilated area. These jackets dry quickly without the need for aggressive spinning. Traditional wringing in the washing machine or by hand is not recommended, as it can damage the insulation structure.
5. Storage: The Key to Longevity
For outdoor clothing, storing in a dry, dark place away from direct sunlight is essential. Also, avoid long-term compression - such as keeping jackets or pants in a packed state. Down jackets should be hung on a hanger or loosely stored in a spacious bag. While it’s okay to compress them for backpack transport, unnecessary fiber folding can damage the material over time.
6. Repairs: A Second Life for Your Clothing
Even the most durable clothing may encounter accidents—a tear from a branch, a damaged zipper, or a broken snap button. But don’t worry! Direct Alpine customers benefit from a lifetime service. Our skilled seamstresses can repair almost anything—from minor damages to more complex fixes—while preserving the original design and quality. Because we have access to original materials, we guarantee a flawless restoration, even for older pieces.
7. Careful Use and Regular Inspections
Outdoor clothing is tough, but not indestructible. Avoid contact with sharp objects, chemicals, or fire. After each adventure, check your clothing for wear, especially seams and zippers. Address minor issues immediately to prevent bigger problems.
Taking care of your Direct Alpine outdoor clothing isn’t complicated—it just requires a little attention and respect for materials and technologies. With proper maintenance, your gear will last for many seasons and accompany you on every adventure. Remember, taking care of your equipment is an investment in your future explorations. So, follow these tips and enjoy every hike, trek, or run to the fullest!